PORTLAND, Ore. -- Former Pilots soccer star and current Orlando City SC forward/midfielder Benji Michel has been named to the U.S. U-23 Men's National Team roster for the Concacaf Olympic Qualifying Championship. The tournament will take place in Guadalajara, Mexico from March 18-30 and all U.S. matches will be televised on FS1.

Michel was one of 20 players selected from a 28-player pool that began training back on March 1. It is the second time that Michel has earned a call up for the U-23 team, the first time being back in June of 2019 for training camp. Michel was also called up to the senior U.S. Men's National Team back in January for a friendly against Trinidad and Tobago.

"Our program is so excited for Benji to bring named to the final USMNT Olympic qualifying roster," Pilots head coach Nick Carlin-Voigt said. "This pool of players was stacked with incredible talent from all over the world.  Benji is a winner and a great worker whose continued success is not a surprise to anyone who has experienced his drive, dedication and determination."

The former Pilot has spent the last two years playing professionally with Orlando City SC in MLS after signing a homegrown contract with the club back in December of 2018. In his 38 career appearances with the club, he has 17 starts, 10 goals and three assists.

Michel had a stellar career during his three years at the University of Portland. The forward had 31 goals, eight assists and 70 points in 53 matches with the Pilots. His 12 game-winners ranks third in program history and he is 12^th in career goals.

Michel was also named West Coast Conference Freshman of the Year in 2016 and earned First-Team All-WCC and all-region honors all three seasons in college. During his junior season, Michel also earned All-American honors.

"Benji's three years in Portland and his two years in the pros have given him a rock-solid foundation and prepared him for what it takes to compete at the highest levels in our sport," Carlin-Voigt said. "On behalf of all Pilot supporters we wish him much success on his journey to the Tokyo Olympic Games."

The first match for the U.S. will take place on Thursday, March 18 against Costa Rica at 1:30 p.m. (PT). They will then face the Dominican Republic on Sunday, March 21 at 4 p.m. (PT) before wrapping up the group stage against Mexico on Wednesday, March 24 at 6:30 p.m. (PT).